Chelsea’s Last Win Over Manchester City Came Four Years Ago in the Champions League Final
Chelsea’s most recent victory over Manchester City was in the 2021 Champions League final, where they triumphed 1-0 in Porto to claim the European title.
However, in their latest encounter at the Etihad, the Blues initially took an early lead but failed to build on it, ultimately losing due to defensive errors and Enzo Maresca’s continued and increasingly questionable faith in goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
Sanchez, already under scrutiny for a costly mistake against Wolves earlier in the week, made another blunder that contributed to City’s crucial goal.
His poor decision-making led him to rush out of his area to challenge Erling Haaland, only to be caught out of position, allowing the striker to score into an empty net.
Maresca’s Ongoing Support for Sanchez Raises Concerns
Ahead of the match, Maresca expressed somewhat reluctant support for Sanchez, noting that the Spanish goalkeeper remains his preferred choice for now, but leaving the possibility of change open.
However, his admission that Sanchez is still “far, far, far from where I want him to be” raises doubts about whether he can become the reliable presence Chelsea needs in goal.
With the summer transfer window approaching, questions arise about how much more damage will be done before Chelsea can address the issue.
Chelsea’s top-four aspirations continue to slip, and with other teams like Newcastle and Bournemouth in strong form, the Blues now sit in sixth place, making their Champions League hopes look increasingly unlikely.
A Goalkeeping Change is Becoming Urgent
At this point, it may be time to give Filip Jorgensen a chance, despite his inconsistency, or Chelsea could explore the transfer market, which is open for another week.
While Manchester City have already bolstered their squad to turn their season around, Chelsea should also consider making reinforcements. With only one win in their last seven matches, adding fresh talent could provide a much-needed boost.
City’s Tactical Adjustments and Chelsea’s Defensive Weaknesses
Despite their recent disappointment in the Champions League, City showed no signs of being rattled early on. Chelsea’s defense was shaky, without the excuse of being unfamiliar, and their high defensive line left Reece James and Marc Cucurella exposed, which City capitalized on.
The link-up between Matheus Nunes and Joško Gvardiol led to City’s equalizer, and Noni Madueke’s lack of defensive awareness played a crucial role in Chelsea’s downfall.
Sanchez had already been fortunate earlier, fumbling a simple save into the path of Omar Marmoush, whose subsequent goal was disallowed for offside.
City’s Direct Play Exposed Chelsea’s Weaknesses
City eventually reverted to a more traditional approach, using Haaland’s physicality to devastating effect. Haaland scored their second goal and set up Phil Foden for a third, securing a 3-1 victory.
For Pep Guardiola’s side, it was a clear statement of intent, while for Chelsea, it highlighted their ongoing struggles. If Maresca hopes to salvage their season, he must make a bold decision—by dropping Robert Sanchez.
